Lee Ann Russ Retires as Middle Township Tax Assessor
After 39 Years of Service, Lee Ann Russ Retires as Middle Township Tax Assessor
Lee Ann Russ (then McIlvaine) was an 18-year-old Middle Township High School Senior when she first applied to work for the Township of Middle on February 18, 1986. A few weeks later, she walked into Town Hall as a part-time clerk typist as part of a work study program through MTHS. Her starting salary was $4.00 an hour. On July 31, 2025, Lee Ann will officially retire from her position as Township Tax Assessor after 39 years of dedicated service to the taxpayers and as one of the longest-serving employees in Township history.
“Many Mayors and Committee Members have come and gone in those 39 years,” Mayor Chris Leusner said. “Lee Ann served them all with a caring and professional attitude. Her wealth of knowledge has been an invaluable resource to our staff and residents for nearly four decades. She was so much more than just a Tax Assessor. She supported every worthy cause and special event and set an example for all of our team members to follow through her dedication to the folks she served.”
Lee Ann’s personnel file overflows with thank you notes and commendations, along with the record of her impressive rise to the top of her profession. She earned her Tax Assessor Certification in 1990. Lee Ann was appointed Deputy Tax Assessor in 1997. She has served as Tax Assessor since 2010 and as Coordinator of Computer Services since 2001. Russ has also filled the role of part-time Tax Assessor for Dennis Township for several years. Lee Ann plays a leadership role in both the Cape May County Assessors’ Association and the Association of Municipal Assessors of New Jersey, serving as Treasurer for both organizations.
“I’ve had the pleasure and honor to work side by side with Lee Ann for over 25 years,” Township Business Administrator Kim Osmundsen said. “She is not just a great co-worker, but a great friend. We’ve come to take her experience and wisdom for granted over the years. Speaking for the governing body and our staff, I can tell you she will be truly missed. We send only the best wishes for a long, happy and healthy retirement.”
Lee Ann and her husband Grant are proud residents of Goshen and have been married for 37 years. They have two children, Megan and Christopher and Lee Ann is a new mom-mom to Madelyn.
“It’s hard to believe nearly four decades have passed since I walked through these doors.” Russ said. “I am truly blessed to have worked with so many great people and elected officials over the years. It was such an honor to serve the folks of my hometown in a role I loved. You can’t ask for much more than that from your career.”
Lee Ann’s long-time partner in the Assessor’s Office, Deputy Assessor Liz Simpkins, will be officially appointed as Russ’s successor at the July 21st Township Committee meeting. Her promotion to Tax Assessor will take effect on August 1, 2025.